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Dancing in the heat
Don’t let the weather defeat you this Summer, just modify your fitness routines to suit you, no matter what your fitness level is!
I had to cancel one class because my body just gave up in the heat and I had to save myself. I am 7 months pregnant after all!
Tearful was an understatement, as I didn’t want to let anyone down. It’s actually easier to turn up and teach, than to cancel and remember to inform everyone who comes/might come.
However, it was a rare occasion (I never cancel), I knew my students would understand and secretly be relieved!
I also knew which venues were air conditioned and which ones aren’t….roll on Thursdays hall at the Durrington Community Centre, haha!
The next plan was how to survive the rest of my classes in the hot weather, so we can all still dance safely…..and it got even hotter, didn’t it!
My 5 Top Tips to workout safely;
✔️Listen to your body – If you are out of breath quicker, slow down or sit down
✔️Drink plenty of water – before, during and after class
✔️Wear lighter clothing – not too baggy for safety reasons, but thinner and shorter
✔️Make the movements smaller – This is what we mean by ‘modifying your movements’; bring your arms closer to your body, instead of jumping stretch up to your toes and create smaller shapes
✔️Look out for your buddies – some will pop outside for some fresh air, so just make sure they are OK.
As the instructor, we sometimes feel we have no choice but to just show up! There are still outgoings to pay for, regardless and people need their classes. So of course the following week was even hotter and I just didn’t want to cancel again, especially with only a few weeks to go until I left for maternity.
It was time to practice what I preach and modify my routines to suit my physical situation.
How does the heat affect you and your fitness?
Do you find it an excuse to cancel or do you feel you still need to follow your routine?
Which brings me onto my next question…..
How do you block out the noise and do what you feel is right for you?
Truth is, other people are often the reason we doubt ourselves, so why do we listen?
I worked through this heatwave because I wanted to. I wasn’t being wonder woman, or a hero or being brave, I just wanted to go to work, dance and see my ladies.
I have nothing to prove, I just love having fun, making the most of my abilities…and getting paid (sorry lol).
So why do I keep going?
👌My classes cheer me up/wake me up
👌I love the uplifting music
👌I enjoy watching my students
👌I have a laugh with everyone
👌I feel happy when I leave
👌I find it easier than parenting at times…the bedtime routine is rough at the moment.
I’m also working hard to stay fit for labour and for after the birth. But being in my 40’s and on my 3rd child, it’s a lot harder than the first time round. If you are expecting, I have some helpful tips you can read/watch;
Benefits of dancing through your pregnancy
and Is it safe to Zumba when expecting?
If you are feeling hot, grumpy and tired in the heat (pregnant or not) I CAN HELP YOU!
My classes will return April 2023 and you can look out for the schedule on Bookwhen.com
In the meantime I have Instagram reels to watch and a Facebook Group to join, if you would like to see if my classes would suit you.
